According to Webster’s dictionary, surveillance is defined as a “close kept watch over someone or something.” Surveillance is not a new concept, and has been used every since the beginning of civilization. However, with the influence of technology, it has evolved. Policing agents no longer need to use methods of surveillance such as listening through walls, looking through windows and over fences, and even sitting in a suspect’s garbage. Because of the ongoing development of new technology, policing agencies can hear, see and track almost everyone and everything at any given time. However, are the citizens of the Canadian society sacrificing their freedom and privacy for the purpose of security? And if

In this case, the court ruled against the agents because they conducted surveillance that was physically intrusive. The home owner expected privacy since he was in his home, therefore it is logical that the agents need a warrant even to conduct the thermal scan. The tips from the neighbours was not enough to use the thermal imager.

From the agents’ point of view, they believed that the homeowner was performing illegal activities in his home and believed they did not need a search warrant to conduct the thermal scan because the technology did not penetrate the walls or roof of the house.

Technology is not only helping the “good guys” but also the “bad guys.” The Pector, which sells for $150, is a device that detects surveillance cameras. It has a very long range, and easily picks up on the difference between actual cameras and “false” ones such as television sets. The Pector indicates the presence of surveillance cameras by vibrating. Furthermore, it fits inside the shirt pocket or the back pocket and is very discreet.

Another very controversial issue is the right to privacy of citizens in their own homes. As citizens of Canada, we have the right to privacy and reserve the right that our privacy will be not be intruded upon. However, as citizens, we also do not have the right to commit crimes within our homes. By committing crimes, we are giving up every right as a citizen.

The use of technological surveillance is one that affects all in a society. The types of technology that can and will be used must be determined. If this power is put into the hands of one person or one governing body, citizens are vulnerable to having their rights to privacy violated. Citizens may be concerned that they are constantly being watched, even in situations where they are not committing crimes. If the power of surveillance gets in the wrong hands, there is a possibility that the information may be used

Some topics in this essay:
According Webster’s, , search warrant, policing agencies, obtain search warrant, obtain search, surveillance technologies, prevent crime, people looking, inside house, looking people, prevent crime catch, agents conducted, home owner, warrant conduct thermal, conduct thermal scan,